Swiss clock licensee 'surprised' that Apple can use clock design

Earlier this week, Apple secured a license from the Swiss Railway to use its iconic Swiss Clock on the iPad. This agreement was lauded by the SBB, but it wasn't so favorably received by Swiss watch maker Mondaine, according to a report in MacWorld UK. The watchmaker has held an exclusive license to use the design since 1986 and said it was surprised by the SBB's agreement with Apple.

"Mondaine holds a long-term exclusive licensee according to a contract with SBB to produce, distribute and market watches and clocks based on the SBB design since 1986 and got surprised to hear about a license agreement between SBB and Apple."

Despite losing its exclusivity, Mondaine is looking at the bright side of the agreement. "Apple shows great taste by choosing this design for their clock on their devices," said Mondaine co-owner Andre Bernhei. "And now, the owners of Mondaine watches and clocks as well as iPad owners can even enjoy the same distinct design."